New HHIC guide helps installers navigate Boiler Plus

Following the launch of Boiler Plus legislation in October, questions have risen from those within the industry surrounding the qualifying technologies, and how they can help consumers decide which suits their lifestyle and home best. As a result, the Heating and Hot Water Industry Council (HHIC) are launching a series of useful guides, assisting installers and consumers alike in their choice of a measure which will ensure higher levels of both domestic energy efficiency and thermal comfort.

Given that one size doesn’t fit all, it’s vital that consumers are aware of the range of products available for them. The first guide, published today, covers Weather compensation – a suitable measure for the legally binding changes outlined in boiler plus, which can be used to describe any control functions which adjust internal temperatures based on the weather outside, ensuring homes are heating adequately.

Speaking about the guide, Martyn Bridges - Director of Marketing and Technical Support at Worcester Bosch Group and chair of HHIC Boiler Technical Panel, said:

“With the advent of the Boiler + standards, entering into force in April 2018, we know that many installers will be keen to learn more about the four technologies eligible for installation with a replacement gas combination boiler, at least one of which must be specified and fitted alongside the boiler.

Through discussion at HHIC meetings, and whilst the policy was at a formative stage, we identified that there was a need to provide a simple and effective way to assist in educating and supporting installers less familiar with the concepts, principles and installation considerations for weather compensation.

We decided that an industry factsheet would be the best approach, helping installers grasp the key points, and instilling them with the confidence to undertake more focused training if necessary. DBEIS have placed great emphasis on the importance of installer skills and competence to the success of Boiler +, not least through the correct specification and installation of control options based on property, consumer and system considerations.

This document can only help aid the UK installer in their transition to working more frequently with weather compensating controls, particularly as it has been developed in consultation with appliance manufacturers, installation businesses, training providers and other leading industry representatives.”